News

In the fall of 2010, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration was petitioned by high-fructose corn syrup (HFCS) manufacturers for the allowance to change the name from HFCS to corn sugar. Now, a cohort of consumer groups is urging FDA to reject this pending request.

South Plainfield, NJ—WholeFoods Magazine has partnered with Canadean and ICD Research to give you answers to some of your most pressing questions about today’s market. The new WholeFoods Magazine Market Research Store offers detailed reports about current consumer trends and emerging markets.

Chicago, IL—According to recent Mintel research, more than half of consumers are reporting that it is more important to buy local produce than organic. Mintel’s Global New Products Database has data showing products with a natural/organic claim have declined 58% between 2008–2011. Vegetable products with the same claim are doing even worse, dropping by 77% during the same time period.

As more and more baby boomers pass the 50th birthday landmark, this consumer-base deserves a second look. Baby boomers are reaching retirement age, which means they will have more time on their hands and more money to spend. In fact, according to www.businessweek.com, the current population between the ages of 60 and 70 has the annual spending power of about $1 trillion.

Berkeley, CA—Maker of organic macaroni and cheese and other organic comfort foods, Annie’s, Inc., based here, has had a successful initial public offering on the New York Stock Exchange. Stock prices climbed 89% on its first day of trading to nearly $40/share, raising $95 million for the company.

Bridgewater, NJ—While many consumers may not equate starches with glycemic health, it’s important to understand that there are different types of starches and one branded form may actually help insulin sensitivity.

Mission Viejo, CA—Though garlic is well known to keep the heart strong, some new research finds it can do much more. According to the University of Florida, aged garlic extract (AGE, Kyolic from Wakunaga of America Co., Ltd.) may help people through the terrible cold and flu seasons.